Family Health Insurance Assistance Program (FHIAP)

Approximately $4 million in ARRA funding will allow the Family Health Insurance Assistance Program to continue assisting thousands of Oregon families pay the monthly premium for high-quality, private health insurance plans.

Health insurance for unemployed Oregonians

Oregonians who lost their jobs between September 1, 2008, and December 31, 2009, and worked for businesses that offered health insurance became eligible for health insurance premium assistance beginning March 1, 2009. Like COBRA benefits, employees pay part of the insurance premium and employers pay the balance knowing they will be reimbursed by the federal government with refunds or credits against their payroll taxes.

Aging Nutrition Services

DHS will receive approximately $1.1 million in ARRA funds to disperse to the 17 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). The monies will pay for congregate nutrition services (usually through nursing homes), home-delivered nutrition services such as Meals on Wheels, and nutrition services for Native Americans 60 years and older.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

The TANF program provides assistance to low-income families with children with employment, housing, child care and other factors affecting family stability while the family works to become self-sufficient. The number of families receiving TANF cash assistance benefits statewide has increased 22.7 percent since February 2008.

Vocational rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation serves Oregonians who have barriers to acquiring or retaining employment. The Independent Living Program provides services to persons with disabilities through local programs called Centers for Independent Living so they can continue living independently.

Community service employment for older Americans

Oregon will receive $350,000 to serve low income persons age 55 or older who have poor employment prospects. The program provides useful community services and fosters individual economic self-sufficiency through training and job placement in unsubsidized jobs